Bad Company – Ready For Love

About the song

Background

• Original Writer: Mick Ralphs, guitarist for the band Mott the Hoople.
• Mott the Hoople Version: Released in 1972 on the album All the Young Dudes. This version had a more glam-rock feel.
• Bad Company Version: After leaving Mott the Hoople, Ralphs joined Bad Company. They reworked “Ready For Love” and released it on their iconic 1974 self-titled debut album. This version became the definitive one, known for its powerful, bluesy rock sound.

Lyrics

The lyrics of “Ready For Love” follow the classic rock trope of a man on the road, restless and searching:

• Loneliness and a Desire for Connection: The speaker expresses a deep longing for love and companionship. He’s tired of being alone and feeling unfulfilled (“Too many nights on my own”, “I need your love to keep me warm”).
• Freedom vs. Commitment: There’s a tension between the call of the open road, the thrill of the unknown, and the desire to settle down. (“Maybe I’ve been movin’ too fast”, “Maybe someday I’ll find a place”).

Themes

• Love and Longing: The central theme is an aching need for love and a deep desire for emotional connection.
• Restlessness and Wanderlust: The song portrays a typical rock and roll spirit of restlessness – a desire for adventure and the open road.
• The Search for Meaning: The lyrics hint at a search for deeper meaning, a longing for something more than just the transient pleasures of the road.

Why it Resonates

“Ready For Love” is a classic rock staple for a reason. Here’s why:

• Powerful Vocals: Paul Rodgers’ soulful, powerful delivery adds emotional depth to the lyrics.
• Driving Rock Sound: The song’s blues-rock foundation gives it an energetic, timeless feel.
• Relatable Themes: The themes of longing for love and the struggle between freedom and commitment are ones many people can relate to.

Video

Lyrics